The case study adds to prior reports of unfavorable cardiovascular events related to the consumption of energy drinks, including abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). The lead author is one Dr. Maryam Sattari of University of Florida, Gainesville.

The case study involves a 28-year-old man seen in the emergency department after developing vomiting with blood. Upon examination, the only abnormality, other than obesity, was a very fast heart rate–about 130 beats per minute.

An electrocardiogram uncovered an abnormal heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation, the rapid, irregular, and unsynchronized contraction of the muscle fibers of the upper chambers of the heart. This is a common type of arrhythmia and it can lead to serious complications if sustained. Further testing showed no other heart problems.

This individual said he routinely drank two Monster energy drinks per day, for a total caffeine content of 320 mg, along with two or three beers. No other common causes of his heart rhythm abnormality were apparent.

With the administration of medications, the atrial fibrillation resolved over 48 hours. An endoscopy was performed, related to the vomiting of blood, showing a tear of the stomach and esophagus. Forceful vomiting probably caused this. The individual was finally sent home in stable condition. A one-year’s follow-up exam uncovered no further symptoms of active arrhythmia.

Although several factors might have contributed to the patient’s atrial fibrillation, Dr. Sattari and colleagues write, “We believe that energy drink consumption played a key role.” They point out the 160 mg caffeine content of a Monster energy drink is about four times higher than in a caffeinated soft drink (The caffeine content of coffee drinks varies widely, but may be even higher).

A review of the medical research identified at least eight cases of cardiovascular events linked to energy drinks, such as Monster or Red Bull. The researchers discuss several mechanisms by which the high caffeine content of these products might lead to cardiovascular events. These include other ingredients, such as taurine, that might heighten the effects of caffeine; using energy drinks along with alcohol or illicit drugs; or high-stress levels.

Energy drinks have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among adolescents and young adults. Marketed as “nutritional supplements,” these beverages are not subject to the caffeine limits on soft drinks, or to the safety testing and labeling required for medications

.

This and previous reports are “suggestive but not conclusive” that the caffeine in energy drinks may cause abnormal heart rhythms and other cardiac complications. “We suggest that arrhythmia could be a complication of energy drink consumption,” Dr. Sattari and coauthors write. They encourage health care providers to ask about energy drink intake in otherwise healthy young patients with unexplained arrhythmias.

Dear Hail-Fellows well met, “The Fat Bastard Gazette” is written and edited by your favorite curmudgeons Captain Hank Quinlan and

Flatfoot Willie, Correspondent at Large with fellow Staff Writers

Staff (monkeys in the back room). We offer an ongoing tirade to support or offend anyone of any large dimension, cultural background, religious affiliation, or color of skin. This gazette rails against an eclectic mix of circus ring ne’er do wells, big ring fatty and fatso whiners, congenital idiots, the usual motley assortment of the profoundly dumbfounded, and a favorite of intelligent men everywhere, the

May the Most Venerable H. L. Mencken bless our unworthy but earnest attempts at tongue in cheek jocularity.

All this and more always keeping our major focus on “Why so fat?” Enough said? We at “The Fat Bastard Gazette” think so. If you like what you read, and you know whom you are, in this yellow blog, tell your friends. We would be elated with an ever-wider readership. We remain cordially yours, Captain Hank Quinlan and the Monkeys in the back room

“The Fat Bastard Gazette” does not purport to offer any definitive medical or pharmaceutical advice whatsoever in any explicit or implied manner. Always consult a qualified physician in all medical or pharmaceutical matters. “The Fat Bastard Gazette” is only the opinion of informed nonprofessionals for the general edification and entertainment of the greater public.

No similarities to any existing names or characters are expressed or implied. We reserve the right to offend or support anybody, anything, or any sacred totem across the globe.